Skimming off the top

Credit card fraud has run rampant on the North Coast recently and bank cards are skimmed and cloned in numerous ways.
However, if people are vigilant when doing transactions with credit cards they can avoid falling prey to skimming.
Card skimming devices scan the magnetic strip on bank cards, copying the details of the card. Criminals just need to watch you key in your pin and they will be able to duplicate your card and draw the funds from it.
Many card skimmers are literally placed on ATMs and are very difficult to recognise. Some devices have small cameras that record the pin code pad, allowing criminals to see you type in your pin.
There are some simple ways to keep your card and its details safe from opportunistic criminals.
Firstly, never let your card out of your sight if you are paying for items. Card skimming devices can be small enough to fit in a person’s hand.
Secondly, always cover the keypad with your other hand while your are typing in your pin. This will prevent people seeing your pin.
Lastly, do not let anyone interfere with you or offer to help you while you are drawing money from an ATM.
People are often unaware that their card and details have been stolen until they get SMS notifications of money being withdrawn. If you have not withdrawn the money yourself and have your card, immediately phone the bank and freeze your account.
A few weeks ago, a Ballito resident had R30 000 stolen from his account from Malaysia, while he was at home in Ballito. (‘Ballito Man Fleeced’, Courier, October 11, 2013). Once criminals have your details, they can perform transactions from almost anywhere.